Invisalign

Invisalign(TM) is the most widely spread brand of private orthodontic treatment and is very popular with our patients due to not requiring any brackets and wires. It’s also very popular with adult patients who have previously had braces but noticed tooth movement due to lack of retention. We start by taking an impression of your mouth, then the orthodontist will use special computer software to manipulate your teeth into the desired place on a 3D model. This information is then sent to the lab that produces a series of specially designed trays/aligners (and in some cases tooth attachments).

Invisalign(TM) works by progressively applying pressure to the teeth through each day until you and the orthodontist are happy with the final result. The trays are almost completely invisible and worn for 2 weeks at a time before swapping to the next one in your treatment plan. An average treatment length is approximately 12 months but this will vary on your individual treatment need. Not everyone is suitable for Invisalign(TM) so contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our orthodontists and we can guide you through your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How clear are they?

Invisalign(TM) trays are well known for being practically invisible, the plastic trays are thin and clear but sturdy enough to promote tooth movement over a period of time. Each try is custom made for each patient and as such they fit perfectly (tightly) over your teeth leaving very little of the tray to see.

How often do I need to wear my aligners and when do I see the orthodontist?

An average patient will wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day (effectively all day every day). The only time they should be taken out is if you’re eating, brushing or flossing. You’ll need to see the orthodontist roughly every 6 weeks to ensure that the course of treatment is working well.

What are the 'attachments'?

If more than just minor tooth movement is required then the orthodontist will have the option to fit attachments for some periods during your treatment. These are small pieces of enamel coloured material that fix to your teeth and fit into grooves within the aligner, thus providing more grip to allow for more extreme movements.

Is it painful and will my teeth feel strange?

The feeling of slight pressure on the teeth when a new fortnightly tray is being used is very common and this is completely normal and safe. Some patients also complain of a sense of “looseness” when they remove the aligner to eat or brush. This is where your teeth have moved but your gums are not fully adhered due to the re-alignment. This will pass once treatment is completed (there is no more tooth movement) and you are in retention.

Do I still need retainers?

Just like all forms of orthodontic treatment you will need retainers at the end of your treatment in order to keep the movement of your teeth in place.